Recoleta Cemetery, a place full of art and mysticism
One of the most traditional neighborhoods of Buenos Aires is home to this incredible place, which has more than 90 vaults declared a National Historic Monument
As its name implies, the Cemetery locates in the exclusive neighborhood of Recoleta, which owes its name to the convent of the Recollect monks located there, to which the neighboring Basilica Nuestra Señora del Pilar also belonged. The cemetery was built in the old monks' garden.
It has lots of visitors, due to its numerous and imposing mausoleums and vaults belonging to many of the main protagonists of Argentine history, Eva Perón (Evita) rests there in one of the most popular tombs. Likewise, it deserves a visit for its architectural value, since it is a sample of the times in which the country was an emerging economic power and the main families of the city competed to build the most splendid pantheon. Many of the vaults and mausoleums are work of important architects and are ornamented with marble and sculpture. It should be noted that more than 90 vaults have been declared a National Historic Monument.
It was built in 1822 as the first public graveyard in the city as the work of the French engineer Próspero Catelin. Towards the end of the 19th century, the wealthiest families began to move to this area of the city and it became their favorite necropolis. Among the personalities buried there are political leaders, presidents of the Nation, writers, Nobel Prize winners, athletes and businessmen.
Curious facts
The Recoleta Cemetery contains many curious stories in its mausoleums. One of the most famous is the story of Liliana Crociati, who died during her honeymoon; her parents built a vault where they reproduced her bedroom and placed her sculpture at the entrance, wearing the wedding dress in which she was buried and accompanied by her inseparable dog. Or that of David Alleno, caretaker of the cemetery, who saved money all his life to be able to build his own tomb there. Also know the story of The Lady in White.
Information:
- Adress: Junín 1760, C1113 CABA
- Tel: 011 4803-1594
- Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.